BS EN 15850:2010

Overview

BS EN 15850:2010 is a critical standard within the food technology sector, specifically addressing the determination of zearalenone in various food products aimed at infants and young children. Zearalenone is a mycotoxin produced by certain fungi, which can contaminate crops such as maize and barley. This standard outlines a method for detecting zearalenone levels in maize-based baby food, barley flour, maize flour, polenta, wheat flour, and other cereal-based foods.

Key Requirements

The standard specifies a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method combined with immunoaffinity column cleanup and fluorescence detection. This method ensures accurate quantification of zearalenone, which is essential for safeguarding public health.

• Sample Preparation: The standard details the necessary steps for preparing food samples to ensure reliable results.
• Immunoaffinity Cleanup: Utilisation of immunoaffinity columns is mandated to isolate zearalenone from complex food matrices.
• Detection Method: Fluorescence detection is employed for its sensitivity and specificity in identifying zearalenone concentrations.

Implementation Benefits

Adopting BS EN 15850:2010 offers several practical benefits for manufacturers and compliance professionals:

• Enhanced Safety: By implementing this standard, food manufacturers can ensure that their products are safe for consumption by infants and young children, thereby reducing the risk of mycotoxin exposure.
• Quality Assurance: Compliance with this standard helps in maintaining high-quality production processes, which can enhance brand reputation and consumer trust.
• Regulatory Compliance: Meeting the requirements of BS EN 15850:2010 aids in fulfilling legal obligations regarding food safety, which is crucial for market access.

Compliance Value

Compliance with BS EN 15850:2010 is not only a regulatory requirement but also a strategic advantage for businesses in the food sector. It demonstrates a commitment to food safety and quality, which is increasingly demanded by consumers and regulatory bodies alike. By adhering to this standard, companies can mitigate risks associated with mycotoxin contamination, thus protecting their customers and their business interests.

In summary, BS EN 15850:2010 provides a robust framework for the detection of zearalenone in food products. Its implementation is essential for ensuring the safety of food intended for vulnerable populations, such as infants and young children. By following the guidelines set forth in this standard, food manufacturers can enhance their product safety, comply with regulatory requirements, and ultimately contribute to public health.